CARRIER CRUISE (Part Six & Final Episode)

Perhaps one of the most unbelievable things about the whole trip, were the people. They were largely positive, despite harsh living conditions. Sure, there are a few that are arrogant, wayward or sloppy but generally I was impressed with the discipline and loyalty of the average sailor. They are performing a job that isn't easy and they are far from their homes and families. They work hard, under terrible conditions with little reward and yet they are firm in the belief that what they are doing is right or at least justified.

They have excellent equipment in a state of the art military. They operate complicated machines that are the envy of the world. Through it all, though, it is not the equipment or weapon systems or machines that are most impressive, but, instead, the rigor of the crew. How many of us non navy types could endure what they endure? Could we leave our comfortable homes and surroundings and go off to some foreign land to fight against an enemy that hates us? Are we willing to sacrifice our very lives, if necessary, in defense of our homeland? I wonder.

From the first day they leave home, they count the days till they can be home again. When I was in Vietnam, I thought of little else. Home...will I ever return? Is my family well? How I longed for "the States." They, likewise, miss their loved ones and dream of the day when they can come back. I hope we put ourselves in their shoes and feel their resolve. They follow orders and do their job the best they are able. May we be worthy of the sacrifice they make.